On Monday afternoon, a tragic ambush by armed terrorists in Badnota village, Kathua district, resulted in the deaths of five soldiers and injuries to five others. The attack occurred around 3:30 PM in Badnota village of Loi Malhar in Billawar tehsil, approximately 120 km from Kathua’s district headquarters, near the Doda district border.
Details of the Attack
According to officials, the ambush involved two to three terrorists who first lobbed a grenade at an army truck before opening fire with automatic weapons. A police officer, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed the casualties, stating, “An army truck was ambushed by armed terrorists in Badnota village. At least five soldiers were killed and five others injured in the ambush.”
Series of Attacks in the Region
This attack follows a series of terror incidents in the Jammu region. Since June 9, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his council of ministers took oath, the region has witnessed four consecutive terror attacks in Reasi, Doda, and Kathua districts. These attacks have resulted in the deaths of nine civilians and a CRPF jawan, and injuries to 49 others, including seven security personnel.
Immediate Response and Search Operations
In the wake of the attack, security forces have launched a massive search operation in the Machhedi area of Kathua district. According to a police statement, “Exchange of fire between terrorists and security forces in the Machhedi area of Kathua district… Massive search operation has been launched.”
Recent Infiltration and Movement
The terrorists are suspected to have recently crossed the international border and were heading towards higher elevations. The army vehicle targeted in the attack was on a routine patrol on the Machhedi-Kindli-Malhar road. The five injured soldiers have been shifted to a military hospital for treatment.
Surge in Terror Activities
The recent attack is part of a sudden spike in terror activities in Jammu and Kashmir. Earlier, a soldier was injured in a suspected terror attack at a sentry post in Galuthi village, Rajouri district. The twin encounters in Kulgam district resulted in the deaths of eight individuals, including six terrorists. Additionally, several other incidents in June saw terrorists targeting security forces and civilians, leading to multiple casualties.
Government Response
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has directed the lieutenant governor-led UT administration and security forces in Jammu and Kashmir to implement tactics used to contain terrorism in the Kashmir Valley in the Jammu region. This includes replicating the success achieved through zero terror and area dominance plans, with a focus on sensitive areas.
Conclusion
The recent terror ambush in Kathua underscores the ongoing threat posed by terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. As security forces intensify their search operations, the region remains on high alert to prevent further attacks and ensure the safety of its citizens.
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